Portugal Golden Visa Timeline 2025: What Americans Should Expect
- Oct 20, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 16
If you’re an American investor considering the Golden Visa, one of the most common questions is: “How long does it take?”
The short answer: around 12 to 24 months from initial investment to receiving your residence card. However, understanding the steps behind that timeline can help you plan strategically. This is especially important if you have business, family, or tax considerations in the U.S.
Our tax and immigration experts are here to prepare your Golden Visa strategy.
Portugal Golden Visa Overview
Portugal’s Golden Visa program is one of the most attractive legal pathways in the world. Since its launch in 2012, this residency-by-investment program has welcomed tens of thousands of investors from outside the EU. It grants them and their families the right to live, work, and study in Portugal. The program features minimal residency requirements and a clear citizenship pathway.
Unlike many immigration routes, the Golden Visa is designed for global citizens who may not want to relocate immediately. This flexibility is a significant reason for its popularity among U.S. citizens in recent years.
Why the Golden Visa Appeals to Americans
For many Americans, the Golden Visa program offers three key advantages:
Visa-free access to the Schengen Zone – Travel freely across 27 EU countries without additional visas.
Minimal stay requirement – Just 14 days every 2 years. This is ideal if you want to maintain your life and business in the U.S. while keeping an EU residency card in your pocket.
Citizenship option after 5 years – With proper planning, you could hold an EU passport, granting full rights to live and work across the European Union.
Expected Timeline for the Portugal Golden Visa
This world-renowned investment visa grants you residency within 12-24 months of the initial investment. Here is a step-by-step timeline to serve as a snapshot of the visa and residency permit process.
1. NIF and Bank Account (2–6 weeks)
You’ll need a Portuguese tax number (NIF) and a local bank account to make the investment. This can be done remotely with legal representation.
2. Investment Execution (1–4 weeks)
Choose and fund your investment. Proper due diligence here is essential — particularly for fund investments.
3. Application Submission to AIMA (immediately after investment)
All Golden Visa applications are now digital. Your legal team submits required documents and sworn statements.
4. Pre-Approval Wait (6–12 months)
AIMA reviews the application. No physical presence is required during this stage.
5. Biometrics Appointment (3–6 months after pre-approval)
This appointment is in-person, in Portugal. After this, final approval follows.
6. Residence Card Issuance (4–6 months)
You’ll receive a 2-year residence permit, renewable every 2 years.
How to Optimize This Timeline as an American
Plan your biometrics trip in advance – Flights and appointments can book up quickly.
Get documents apostilled early – U.S. background checks and apostilles can take time.
Structure your investment clearly – Delays often occur due to incomplete documentation.
Key Tip
Many American investors initiate their Golden Visa application without immediate relocation plans. This allows them to lock in their place in the queue, secure EU residency rights, and make relocation decisions later. It is advantageous to get a head start, especially with more and more Americans choosing this route as a 'Plan B' amidst the current social and political climate.
Ready to map out your personalized Golden Visa strategy? Our legal team is here to help.
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